Soccer teams throughout Argentina will honor Lionel Messi with a moment of applause during their next matches, following his recent announcement to step back from international play. Referees will halt the games at the 10-minute mark in the upcoming Clausura tournament and other leagues for both men and women, as a gesture of respect for Messi’s contributions to the national team, as stated by the Argentine Football Association late Wednesday.
At 39 years old, Messi, who donned the No. 10 jersey for Argentina, revealed on Monday that he will no longer represent the national squad after an impressive 21-year tenure. He famously guided Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, participated in two additional World Cup finals, and established national records with 207 caps and 125 goals.
Celebrated throughout Argentina, Messi has never played professionally in his home country, having relocated to Barcelona at just 13 years old to embark on a remarkable career that many deem legendary. Currently, he continues his club endeavors with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Fan Take: This tribute to Messi signifies a heartfelt acknowledgment of his incredible impact on soccer in Argentina and globally. For soccer fans, it underscores the end of an era while celebrating the legacy of one of the sport’s all-time greats, possibly inspiring future generations of players.
Source: www.foxsports.com
